Joseph Smith, Sr., had a number of remarkable dreams or visions in the years leading up to the coming forth of the Book of Mormon. As recounted by his wife Lucy Mack Smith, one of these dreams involved imagery which is strikingly similar to the Tree of Life vision recorded in the Book of Mormon. Is this evidence for plagiarism on the part of Joseph Smith, Jr., as some critics allege? Careful historical analysis reveals the matter is much more complicated than simple accusations of plagiarism might make it otherwise seem.

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